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Beyond the Slopes

Breckenridge Arts Scene Winter Preview

Breckenridge sits at the base of a ski resort with five peaks, boasting three new chair lifts in just as many years. It’s a globally acclaimed Colorado ski town. But it’s not the dry, light “cold smoke” snow that sets Breckenridge apart. It’s the arts and culture scene that puts this community into a category of its own. 

If you’re looking for winter activities beyond skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor adventure, Breck Create offers inspiring creative experiences for the entire family. The Breckenridge institution’s winter schedule features a full calendar of live events and hands-on classes for all ages and skill levels.

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Breckenridge Art and Culture Attractions

Breck Create animates downtown Breckenridge with innovative arts and cultural programming. Old Masonic Hall is your hub for information. Here you’ll find a box office, schedules, and handy maps. It also hosts free rotating art installations. Featured Breckenridge attractions include:

Breckenridge Arts District Campus 

Officially certified by the state of Colorado as a “creative district” in 2014, the arts district campus consists of renovated historic mining-era structures that now function as studio spaces for creative classes, workshops, and affordable studio rentals for local and visiting artists. This winter, meet or observe the following artists in residence:

  • Ingrid “Kiki” Díaz-Davis creates simple, colorful, and nature-inspired art that reflects her Guatemalan heritage and passion for inclusivity.

  • Kia Neill is a Summit County-based multidisciplinary artist whose work is shaped by her surroundings.

  • Jodi Stuart, originally from New Zealand and based in Denver, plans to explore transforming plastic waste into art as well as ice sculpting during her residency. 

Precious Plastic Re-Maker Workspace 


Because curbside recycling is limited in Summit County, Breck Create joined Precious Plastic in 2022—a global initiative to reduce plastic waste by transforming single-use plastic into art and functional items. Drop off clean, label-free plastic waste at a collection event and give it new life in a creative class.  

Breckenridge Troll 

Isak Heartstone—a large-scale wooden troll sculpture constructed from recycled materials by Danish artist Thomas Dambo—has become one of Breckenridge’s most beloved icons. Commissioned in 2019 by Breck Create and the Town of Breckenridge, he’s located near the Stephen C. West Ice Arena and is easy to visit.  

Breckenridge Public Art Tour 

History lovers can explore the town’s public art collection while learning about Breckenridge’s storied past. There are three self-guided routes; maps can be picked up from Old Masonic Hall or the Breckenridge Welcome Center. 

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The Breckenridge Arts District Campus at night
Students in a beginner glassblowing class

Breckenridge Art and Culture Events

Connection and community are at the heart of Breck Create’s mission. Attend any of the events below to experience it firsthand. 

  • Free Winter Art Exhibition
    Learn about Summit County’s rich immigrant community by viewing Juan Fuentes Lo Que La Tierra Abraza / What the Land Embraces, on display through January 4th at Old Masonic Hall.

  • Breckenridge Arts District Winter Weekend
    A festive celebration of art, winter activities, and holiday cheer, it marks the official kickoff to the Breckenridge holiday season over the first weekend of December.

  • Campus Crawl
    Friday, December 5th: Explore the Breckenridge arts district and step inside working studios for artist demos, family-friendly crafts, and live music.

  • Handmade Holiday
    Saturday, December 6th: Shop unique handcrafted gifts made by local artists, enjoy holiday music, make your own ornament, and grab a drink from the outdoor Ice Bar. The day will be filled with holiday-themed activities such as a Santa Dance Off and a Jingle Paws dog fashion show. This event coincides with the Lighting of Breckenridge + Race of the Santas.

Ullr Fest 


For more than 60 years, Breckenridge has honored Ullr, the Norse god of snow, with an epic winter party. From December 18 – 20 on Main Street, join the celebration. Breck Create helps set the vibe with two great classes:

  • Ullr Fest: Create Your Own Upcycled Shot Ski
    November 21st, December 4th + 18th: Help Breckenridge break the record for the world’s longest shot ski by creating your own from upcycled materials. Pre-registration required.

  • Ullr Fashion + Accessories Workshop
    December 17th: Use sustainable materials to create Viking-inspired accessories. Pre-registration required.

  • Winter Solstice Celebration
    Sunday, December 21st: Honor the longest night of the year at Breck Create’s Cacao Ceremony: Winter Solstice Meditation, featuring ceremonial-grade cacao and intention-setting rituals.

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Live Holiday Events in Breckenridge 


If your holiday season isn’t complete without a festive performance, consider attending any of these events.

  • The Christmas Clock
    December 5th – 6th: Don’t miss this original holiday story from Alpine Dance Academy, a treasured community partner. 

  • Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol
    December 10th – 31st: Breckenridge Backstage Theatre retells the classic holiday story, this time from the perspective of Scrooge’s partner, Jacob Marley.

  • Ullr Return to the Kingdom Concert
    December 19th: Dance to ’80s hits, pray for snow, and support high-quality childcare within the community.

The community lines up on each side of Main Street Breckenridge for the annual Running of the Santas

Breckenridge Art Classes


Looking for a rewarding winter activity off the mountain? Breck Create’s classes and workshops offer skill-building in a supportive, welcoming environment. You’ll immerse yourself in local creativity and support local artists who teach.

Classes are offered on a regular basis. Winter highlights include:

Check out Breck Create’s calendar for the complete selection, and register early—classes fill up quickly during the holiday season.

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Join the Breckenridge Art Scene

Make time for creativity with Breck Create this winter. The organization makes it easy to infuse your season with connection, celebration, and inspiring experiences, all while supporting local artists.

Members enjoy perks like early ticket access and discounts on classes, open studios, and workshops. Annual memberships start at just $50!

Become a member today!